THE NEXT GENERATION MEET THE CLASS OF 2023

Felipe Amorim

Felipe is a double major in mathematics and physics from Curitiba, Brazil. He has played for the Gyrene tennis team his entire college career, earning multiple distinctions such as Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete, Team Coaches’ Award recipient, and 2x Sun Conference All-Academic Team. He is also a very gifted physicist! He published a paper on particle physics with Dr. Daniel Sadasivan, assistant professor of physics at AMU, in February of 2022 and did research over the summer under world-renowned computer scientist Dr. Stephen Wolfram.

After graduation, Felipe plans on getting his master’s in computer science and beginning work in the tech industry.

My favorite part about going to college at AMU has been the strong friendships I’ve been able to make. I’ve met my best friends here, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the education I’ve received, all while playing the sport I love.

— Felipe Amorim ('23), Mathematics and Physics

Nayeli Rios

Nayeli is a biology major (B.S.) from Los Angeles, California. She was a research assistant over the summer for Dr. Stephen Cronin, associate professor of biology at AMU, observing the biological properties of thiazolium ionic liquids, specifically their ability to damage DNA. She gained experience testing different concentrations of ionic liquids on genetically modified salmonella to observe cell growth and plans on assisting research again this summer, pending graduate school plans.

After graduation, Nayeli plans on attending dental school for orthodontics.

I really enjoyed the connections I made with my professors at AMU. The small class sizes allowed for close-knit environments where we could get intentional guidance from the faculty, which allowed me to develop mentor relationships with several of them. The faculty at AMU were definitely the highlight of my college experience!

— Nayeli Rios ('23), Biology (B.S.)

Jack Decheine

Jack is a history major from River Falls, Wisconsin. He transferred to AMU during his sophomore year and is a member of Fishers of Men household. After converting to the faith, Jack went in search of authentic Catholic community and found Ave.

After graduation, Jack plans on working for the dental company VOCO, selling dental equipment around the Midwest.

My favorite thing about AMU was finding and immersing myself in a Catholic community. As a convert, I didn’t have any faith-based community back home, so coming to Ave was a huge blessing for me and my relationship with Christ.

— Jack Decheine ('23), History

For over 25 years, our alumni have continued to take their education out into the world, sharing their love of the Catholic Church through their chosen field and God-given talents. The world waits in eager anticipation for the next 25 years of Ave Maria graduates!

— Shelby Mayer ('20) Content Marketing Manager shelby.mayer@avemaria.edu